About RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND
Overview Camping groups looking for a more rustic riverside experience will enjoy Red Diamond in Willamette National Forest. The campground can accommodate up to 25 guests and provides plenty of shade for warm, summer days. The South Fork McKenzie River and many fishing holes can be accessed from the site. Hiking trails can be found in the surrounding area and the Cougar Reservoir is just a short drive north.Recreation Fishing and kayaking are popular activities on the river. Nearby is the Box Canyon Trail with excellent opportunities for mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. Chucksney Mountain Trail, Grasshopper Mountain Trail and Roaring Ridge are also in the area.Facilities The campground is laid out on one loop with picnic tables, campfire rings and ample parking. Portable toilets and trash collection are provided. No water is available, so be sure to bring your own supply.Natural Features The campground is nicely shaded by Douglas fir, maple and alder trees, within the midsection of the Cascade Range in western Oregon. The South Fork of the McKenzie flows nearby. The McKenzie River is a tributary of the Willamette River that runs for 90 miles, flowing into the southernmost end of the Willamette Valley. The Willamette National Forest stretches for 110 miles with varied landscapes of high mountains, narrow canyons, cascading streams and wooded slopes. Nearby Attractions Head to the Three Sisters Wilderness Area to hike a part of the 260 miles of trail through 286,708 acres of wild, rugged mountains and meadows. There are also bike and horse trails within 10 miles of the campground.
How to Get There
From Blue River, OR, travel 4 miles east on Highway 126 to Aufderheide Drive (Forest Service Road 19). Turn right and proceed south on Aufderheide Drive, taking the Y and climbing to the top of Cougar Reservoir. Continue south on Aufderheide Drive for 13 miles to Red Diamond Group Campsite.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND
Heading to RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234218) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND?
From Blue River, OR, travel 4 miles east on Highway 126 to Aufderheide Drive (Forest Service Road 19). Turn right and proceed south on Aufderheide Drive, taking the Y and climbing to the top of Cougar Reservoir. Continue south on Aufderheide Drive for 13 miles to Red Diamond Group Campsite.
How do I contact RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 801-226-3564 or email: Help.Willamette.McKenzieRiver@AmericanLL.com.
References & Official Resources
